As Scottish Apprenticeships Week 2026 draws to a close, Countryside Learning Scotland (CLS) is proud to celebrate the achievements of learners and young rural workers across the country, and the vital role that work-based learning plays in strengthening Scotland’s rural sector.
Across our regions, CLS continues to expand access to apprenticeship pathways, creating meaningful opportunities for young people to enter rural careers.
Pathways to Rural Work in Action this Week
In Dumfries & Galloway, our Regional Coordinator Sharon Glendinning has partnered with Tarff Services to deliver the first CLS-coordinated Lantra Tractor Driving Course in D&G, as part of the Pathways to Rural Work (P2RW) initiative. Since December 2025, CLS has organised four Lantra courses, with outstanding feedback from parents, teachers and partner organisations.
The programme provides an excellent introduction to rural employment — supporting young people onto a clear pathway into the sector, whether or not they come from a rural background.
Meanwhile in the Cairngorms, Regional Coordinator Ellen Grant has just launched Live Chat a Farmer 2026 with Geography pupils at Speyside High School.
The first session on 2nd March connected students via livestream with Duncan Miller of Tullochgorum Farm, Boat of Garten, offering real-time insight into his farming system and the challenges and developments shaping modern agriculture. Through digital technology, pupils gain a direct and engaging view of daily rural work — helping to spark informed interest in rural career pathways.
In Tayside this week, Regional Coordinator Tors Hamilton has represented CLS at three DYW apprenticeship and careers fairs: Kingsway Campus and Gardyne Road Campus at Dundee & Angus College, and Brechin High School.
Engaging directly with secondary pupils and college students is essential to raising awareness of opportunities such as the Land-Based Pre-Apprenticeship and the Modern Apprenticeship in Land & Nature. Promoting these frameworks ensures that rural apprenticeships reach new audiences and continue to attract motivated young entrants.
The CLS team gathered in Crieff on the 5th March for a focused session to shape the next phases of Pathways to Rural Work. A key development is the Rural Employability Scheme (RES), an exciting evolution of P2RW that brings together a clear, structured programme designed to support young people into rural careers. By creating a defined pathway into employment, RES aims to strengthen opportunities for young people while suppporting the long-term sustainability and strategic growth of the rural sector. Stay tuned with CLS updates to find out progress of RES.
Celebrating Rural Learners at the ALBA Awards
The highlight of CLS’s Scottish Apprenticeships Week celebrations was attending the Lantra Scotland ALBA Awards 2026, recognising Scotland’s outstanding rural learners.
Each year, Countryside Learning Scotland presents the Tam Tod Trophy to an Outstanding Young Learner who has demonstrated commitment and progress in rural work. Established in memory of Tam Tod — a respected gamekeeper, ghillie and lifelong friend of the countryside — the award recognises dedication, skill development and contribution to the rural sector.
Tam was known for his instinctive teaching ability and patience, sharing not only practical skills in fishing and shooting but also a deep respect for wildlife and the land. His legacy continues through the recognition of young people who show the same commitment to rural learning and work.
Scottish Apprenticeships Week 2026 has highlighted the importance of creating clear, supported pathways into rural work. Countryside Learning Scotland remains committed to widening access, strengthening partnerships and supporting young people as they develop the skills, confidence and experience needed to thrive in Scotland’s rural sector.
We thank our collaborators and supporters for the continuous generosity and hard work, helping Countryside Learning Scotland make all this happen.